Talk Money: March 31, 2016

Tony Field (Paul Henry)
Tony Field (Paul Henry)

The New Zealand dollar is going even higher.

It has risen to just over 69 US cents. It has been the top performer on global markets this week, rising from 66.87 cents on Sunday.

It is not so much an endorsement of our economy, but rather a reflection of the higher interest rates that are on offer here in New Zealand for investors with cash.

The US Federal Reserve has been dampening expectations for rate hikes this year in the US.

The Kiwi has also against the Australian currency and is trading at just over 90 cents.

A higher dollar is not great for exporters.

The latest Westpac Regional Economic Confidence Survey found dairy regions are the most pessimistic, with Taranaki, Southland and Manawatu-Whanganui topping the list.

The most optimistic areas are the Bay of Plenty, Gisborne and Hawke's Bay. They are all doing well from horticulture and tourism.